As well as being jailed, Sculpher was made subject to a restraining order for three years prohibiting him from contacting Mr Rivers.

Catherine Allan, prosecuting, said Mr Rivers was in his shop, the Cash for Clothes Centre, in Darwen Street on a Sunday sorting out stock. Sculpher came banging on the door and was allowed in because Mr Rivers’ girlfriend recognised him.

Sculpher said he was skint and before Mr Rivers could answer he was grabbed by the throat, pushed against the wall and punched repeatedly.

Mr Rivers’ girlfriend got between them and told Sculpher to get out. The couple followed him, ringing the police at the same time.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said Sculpher had gone to find Mr Rivers because of a dispute over a debt involving his step-daughter. He said: “He accepts he lost his temper and struck out.”